Hyundai sales soar: used models in demand

18 June 2004

Hyundai sales soar: used models in demand

Used Hyundai vehicles are in demand in New Zealand ... so much that some dealers are ringing existing owners trying to buy their vehicles.

"We just can't get enough stock of some models such as Santa Fe, Sonata and Elantra," commented Andrew Betts, General Manager of Winger Hyundai in Greenlane, Auckland.

"We have had to resort to ringing current owners, but they don't want to part with them," he added. "We have waiting lists for used Hyundais now."

The demand is in line with the dramatic increase in sales of new Hyundai product this year, reports Hyundai Automotive New Zealand.

"To the end of May, Hyundai sales are up over 50% on the same period in 2003, said HANZ General Manager, Philip Eustace.

"Anecdotal evidence we have gathered highlights increases of up to 20 percent in the price of some Hyundai models going through auctions at present- activity which is closely monitored by HANZ," said Mr Eustace.

"So it is not surprising that our dealers are finding it harder to locate Hyundai used product.

"The brand is being advertised heavily which is creating demand for both new and used Hyundais".

Mr Eustace says New Zealand new car buyers are attracted to the brand by the high level of specification and the outstanding value that Hyundai represents.

Recent high rankings in quality surveys in the United States reflect what new car buyers know of the Hyundai product here.

Meanwhile sponsorship of the popular TV show Hyundai Sportscafe has given the Hyundai brand a much higher profile in the minds of consumers.

And new models such as Getz are eating into sales of their major competitors as buyers increasingly recognize the value and quality of Hyundai product.

Hyundai Total Vehicle Sales % Change Calendar year 02 1,539 Calendar year 03 1,888 +23%

Year to date 03 749 Year to date 04 1128 +51%

ENDS

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